Economic snapshot launch reveals Solihull’s strengths in AI and technology

The Solihull Economic snapshot launch, organised by the Solihull Chamber of Commerce, revealed the borough’s strengths in AI and technology.

During the event, held today at Cranmore Park, business leaders and council representatives shared their views on the report findings which showed that Solihull’s employment rate of 77 per cent is above both the West Midlands and UK averages while unemployment remains low at 3.2 per cent.

The report also reveals that the borough has one of the most skilled workforces in the West Midlands, with 43.1 per cent of residents holding a Level 4+ qualification, a considerably stronger profile than the wider region.

The launch event was chaired by Solihull Chamber of Commerce president Emma-Louise Hewitt and the report was sponsored by Prime Accountants Group.

The main findings of the report were given by Paige Bowyer, policy and research analyst at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

She said: “The borough’s employment and qualification levels are significantly above both regional and national averages, which is a strong signal for the local economy.

“It is particularly encouraging that, despite an ageing population, there is a strong pipeline of young people who can support the future workforce.

“Continued investment in digital infrastructure and innovation – including developments such as UK Central and the Telecoms Lab – highlights Solihull’s growing strength in AI and emerging technologies.

“Businesses are clearly adapting to rapid technological change, and it is promising to see the borough positioned on the front foot.”

Other panellists included Tony Elvin, general manager at Touchwood Solihull, Karen Grinsell, council leader of Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, and Kevin Johns, director and shareholder at Prime Accountants Group.

Tony spoke about the boom of retail space in the region and worries facing hospitality.

He said: “Online sales have now for several years represented about 25 per cent of all retail sales and brands are now recognising the importance of having physical stores.

“There are around 10 to 15 different retailers who want to be in Touchwood but showing the boom of retail economy. The Solihull high street is also getting stronger and once Mel Square is developed, it will create more opportunities and retail space.

“In hospitality, a third of businesses are running through a loss and business rates have played a main role in this. It is difficult to make a profit when the government promised an overhaul of business rates and changed the rateable value of properties, which brought those down.”

Cllr Karen Grinsell said “The council is working closely with universities and training providers to identify the skills needed for the future and ensure young people in Solihull are equipped to succeed.

“We are also focused on supporting those not currently in education, with officers actively engaging with families to understand and address the barriers.

“Our business support team is always on hand to help start-ups facing challenges, with a wide range of support available across the borough.”

Karen also highlighted the need to provide reasonable adjustments where possible to students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

Kevin Johns stressed that business confidence and cautiously optimistic in the region with a range of factors affecting long term growth.

He said: “This is the only independent report of its kind for the borough, and it should be used to challenge and inform key stakeholders.

“Businesses have shown strong resilience post-pandemic by adapting to change, and while there is cautious optimism, there are still concerns around disruption, growth constraints, land availability, and transport connectivity.

“Recent changes, including increases in national insurance and the minimum wage, have created additional pressures, particularly for younger people entering the workforce.

“Addressing housing needs will also be critical to retaining talent and supporting long-term growth in the region.”